Performer Vino Alan to release debut single

Vino Alan needs no introduction. The former “X-Factor” contestant, who is on his way to climbing the ladder of musical success, is about to release his debut single "My Summer."

By Jim Brock

Vino Alan needs no introduction. The former “X-Factor” contestant, who is on his way to climbing the ladder of musical success, is about to release his debut single "My Summer."

Vino Alan will perform at Fat Cats Entertainment Complex in Rolla Saturday, May 11. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show starts at 8 p.m. The cost is $7 in advance or $10 at the door.

In anticipation of Vino's performance at Fat Cats Entertainment Saturday night in Rolla, we were able to "get the skinny" on Vino Alan, whose Rolla roots lie much deeper than most people realize.

Do you enjoy returning to Rolla to perform? What do you like most about it? I always think of my grandpa when I go through Rolla. He was proud to be a Miner (rest his soul).

Briefly describe your “X-Factor” experience. It has launched my career as a worldwide recording artist and I am beyond grateful . (It) was very hard to beat out 130,000 singers to get to top three.

What's going on right now, professionally? Do you have a new album? (The) debut single "My Summer" releases May 21 on Top 40 radio (available on iTunes and 700-plus outlets). My album is due in Dec. '13 ... titled "Painting Sunshine.”

What do you miss most about central Missouri? Rivers and good people.

Who is your favorite band/artist? Stevie Wonder.

I know you used to host the open mic at C&M Billiards in Rolla. How long did you do that and what was that like for you? It felt good to be a part of opening an open mic night in Rolla. There’s a lot of talent in (the) area.

How does success in music feel? Humbling ... (I'm) grateful to make music for a living and be able to give back.

What did you want to be when you grew up? Firefighter.

Who is your best friend? Mike Haney (a mechanic in St. Robert).

Who inspires you? Athletes/soldiers/artists.

What do you think is missing from music today that was there 15-20 years ago? Happy mistakes. Music today is expected to be so polished which can sometimes put distance between the listener and the artists' raw emotion (if there is any...)

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? As a Grammy-award-winning philanthropist/ activist.If you could tour with any artist/band right now, who would it be and why? U2. I think they have fans of all ages, colors, shapes and sizes —like myself.

What time do you wake up in the morning, and what is the first thing you think about? Being in and out of different time zones, my schedule flips around, but when I wake up I make sure to take at least three minutes to think about nothing before starting my day (quiet the mind).

Favorite book? "A New Earth" - Eckhart Tolle

Favorite movie? "The Campaign.”

If you could have any job in the world, what would it be and why? Exactly what I'm doing now because the universe has plans for me to help bring people together. I can feel it.